The Effects of Physical Maltreatment and Early Relationship Quality on Intimate Partner Infidelity in Young Adulthood

• In Event: Poster Session II

Abstract

Sexual infidelity has been linked to intimate partner violence, STI transmission and relationship dissolution. Previous research has identified sociodemographic correlates of infidelity, and has documented an association between childhood sexual abuse and girl’s and women’s sexual behaviors. Comparatively less research has examined other abuse types or broader social influences outside the maltreatment domain on these later relationship behaviors, and even less has examined these associations among boys and men. Following social learning and attachment theories, the present study posits that physical maltreatment and poor relationship quality with others in earlier life may produce feelings of mistrust and uncertainty in romantic relationships that, in turn, increase the risk for partner infidelity. Using five waves of data from the Toledo Adolescent Relationships Study (N = 790), the present study examines the influence of family background and current romantic relationship characteristics on intimate partner infidelity in young adulthood. Results from OLS regression analyses indicate that parent-child physical aggression and family structure are key components in assessing individuals’ risk for intimate partner infidelity. Maltreated individuals also evidence a greater degree of relationship uncertainty and verbal aggression in their romantic relationships, both of which are positively associated with partner infidelity.

Authors

• Angela Kaufman-Parks, Assumption College

• Alfred DeMaris, Bowling Green State University

• Peggy C Giordano, Bowling Green State University

• Monica Longmore, Bowling Green State University

• Wendy Manning, Bowling Green State University